Congratulations to the 2026 recipient of the Russ Swanson Outstanding Band Member, Ryan Swierczek Jr! Ryan is a senior from Omaha, Nebraska. He is a music education major and plays the french horn and mellophone.
My name is Ryan Swierczek Jr, and I was born and raised in Omaha, Nebraska. I attended Fort Calhoun Jr/Sr High School, and it was there that I began my journey into music and more specifically music education. Ever since I found a trumpet underneath the stairs at my grandparents house I knew I wanted to play instrumental music. After going through high school and switching instruments several times I knew I wanted to keep playing the french horn, and study music education so I could keep myself in this style of music for the rest of my life. When I was applying to colleges one of my requirements was that there was a strong band program with a marching band, so coming to the university was an easy decision to make. During my time in the CMB I played the mellophone, was a rank leader, and in my final year was the section leader of the mellophone section. Thanks to the outstanding individuals I have worked with and learned from, I found success, learning opportunities, and friends in my time here.
I want to thank you for awarding me the Russ Swanson Outstanding Band Member award. It is such an honor to be a part of the legacy that this award has created throughout the years. In my student teaching I have been working with Brian Vuu who was the 2015 recipient of this award, and seeing how amazing he is has truly made me understand what a privilege it is to be given this award. I am humbly honored and grateful for this award, and the opportunities I will have to give back as an alumni thanks to my life membership.
This award is presented to a band member demonstrating the highest standard of attitude, musicianship, leadership, and service to the University of Nebraska Band Program. Along with a custom plaque created by our alum, Nathan Nelson of Rooted Woodworking, he also received a $100 award, a life membership in the UNL Band Alumni Association, and their name on a plaque which is on display at Westbrook Music Building.